Description
Use the engineering design process to build a structure to handle the greatest load. Gain first-hand experience with compression and tension forces.

Objectives
Students will:
• Test factors affecting the strength and stability of a structure.
• Use the design process to identify the problem and brainstorm, design, build, test, redesign and share their solutions.
• Measure and record strength and amount of weight the structure will hold.

National Science Education Standards, NSTAScience as Inquiry
• Understanding of scientific concepts.
• An appreciation of "how we know" what we know in science.
• Skills necessary to become independent inquirers about the natural world.
• The dispositions to use the skills, abilities and attitudes associated with science.

Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, NCTMRatios and Proportional Relationships
• Analyze proportional relationships and use them to solve real-world and mathematical problems.Geometry
• Solve real-life and mathematical problems involving angle measure, area, surface area and volume.

ISTE NETS and Performance Indicators for Students, ISTECreativity and Innovation
• Create original works as a means of personal or group expression.
• Use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues.Communication and Collaboration
• Contribute to project teams to produce original works or solve problems.